Packing for a surf retreat in Costa Rica is simpler than you think — especially when your resort handles the surf gear. Here’s what to bring, what to leave at home, and what we provide at Kalon Surf.
What Kalon provides (so you don’t have to pack it)
One of the best parts of an all-inclusive surf retreat is showing up without hauling a board bag through the airport. At Kalon, we provide:
- Surfboard matched to your skill level — from soft-tops for first-timers to Firewire and Slater Designs shapes for experienced surfers
- Leash and fins
- Rash guard (yours to keep)
- Reef-safe zinc sunblock
- Beach towels
- Water and snacks at the beach during surf sessions
- Expert coaching and in-water guidance tailored to your level
Bottom line: you don’t need to bring any surf equipment. We take care of the rest.
Swimwear and surf clothing
This is really the only surf-related packing you need to think about.
Women: A secure one-piece swimsuit or surf bikini that stays put during wipeouts. Surf shorts or leggings are also helpful for extra coverage and comfort. Bring at least two or three swimsuits so you always have a dry one ready.
Men: Board shorts in a four-way stretch material — they’re more comfortable for long sessions and dry faster. Bring two or three pairs.
Everyone: A second rash guard or UV-protective long-sleeve if you burn easily. The Costa Rican sun is strong, especially on the water between 10 AM and 2 PM.
Everyday clothing
The vibe at Kalon — and Costa Rica in general — is relaxed. Think light, comfortable, and easy to wash.
- Lightweight t-shirts, tanks, and casual shorts for daytime
- Something comfortable for evenings — dinners at Kalon are served at a communal table and the atmosphere is relaxed but nice. Think a casual sundress, a clean button-down, or a linen shirt — nothing fancy, just not beach-sandy
- A light sweatshirt or hoodie — Kalon sits at 1,200 feet elevation, and evenings can get breezy. You’ll want a layer
- Activewear if you plan to join the yoga and pilates sessions
- A rain jacket — even in dry season, a passing shower is always possible. In green season (May–November), afternoon rain is common, though mornings are typically sunny
Footwear
- Flip-flops or sandals — this is what you’ll wear 90% of the time
- Comfortable walking shoes or light hikers — essential if you’re planning to do a waterfall hike, ATV tour, or jungle excursion on Wednesday (the scheduled day off from surfing)
- Leave the dress shoes at home. You won’t need them
Beach and water essentials
- Sunglasses with a strap or retainer — you’ll want them for the SUV rides to the beach and post-surf downtime
- A wide-brim hat or cap — sun protection between sessions
- An insulated water bottle — staying hydrated is important when you’re surfing 3–4 hours a day. We have filtered water, coffee, and drinks available at the resort throughout the day
- A waterproof phone case or dry bag — handy for the beach, especially if you want to take photos or keep your phone safe near the water
Health and personal items
- Your own sunscreen for non-surf days (we provide zinc for surf sessions, but you may want your preferred brand for the pool or excursions)
- Bug spray — especially useful for jungle excursions and evening time outdoors. Mosquitoes are more active during green season
- Any prescription medications you take regularly
- A basic first aid kit isn’t necessary — we have one at the resort — but bring any specific items you rely on (blister plasters, antihistamines, etc.)
- Motion sickness remedies if you’re prone to it — the drive from San José to Kalon is scenic but winding
Optional but guests are glad they packed
A small daypack — useful for Wednesday excursions
A good book — there’s plenty of downtime by the pool, in a hammock, or on your private balcony
A journal or notebook — a lot of guests find the week reflective and like to capture thoughts
Binoculars — howler monkeys, toucans, and scarlet macaws are regular visitors to the property
A waterproof camera or GoPro — we take photos and video during surf sessions for coaching, but if you want your own footage, bring something waterproof. Phone cases work too
What you can leave at home
- Surfboard and surf gear — we provide it all
- Wax and wax comb — taken care of
- Wetsuit — water temperatures are 78°F+ (25–26°C) year-round. No wetsuit needed
- Formal clothing — there’s no dress code. Kalon is intentionally relaxed
- Heavy luggage — pack light. You’ll live in swimwear and casual clothes all week
- Toiletries in bulk — we provide quality toiletries in the rooms. Bring only what’s personal to you
Getting here
Your airport transfer from San José (SJO) is included — a private SUV picks you up and drives you the scenic 3-hour route along the coast to the resort. You don’t need to arrange rental cars, domestic flights, or figure out directions. Just land, find our driver, and relax.
If you’re planning to extend your trip before or after Kalon with a rental car or additional travel, our team is happy to help you coordinate logistics.
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